Deep Brain Stimulation

Minimally Invasive, Reversible, Remarkable

Abington's neurosurgical team finds it highly rewarding to watch a patient with movement-related tremors regain degrees of control, providing such relief through minimally invasive means. Patients are undergoing revolutionary brain surgery through tiny incisions for shorter recovery times and less scarring.

The implanted technology can be adjusted non-invasively, simply by waving a magnet over the neurostimulator. The magnetic force changes the amplitude of the stimulation, moving it up or down a spectrum of settings.

And unlike previous surgical intervention for Parkinson's patients, DBS can be completely reversed. The electrical leads and hardware can be removed without any damage to the brain.

The procedure is not for every patient, particularly those who have dementia coupled with Parkinson's. Most patients still need some medication, although DBS generally reduces the dosage needed. For many individuals, however, Abington's DBS expertise represents remarkable relief from terrible tremors.

For more information about the Neurosciences Institute at Abington Memorial Hospital, visit our website www.amh.org/brain or call 215-481-MEDI.